Omajowa, Termite Hill Mushrooms in Namibia

[Ozondjahe Hunting Safaris]

Omajowa, Termite Hill Mushrooms in Namibia

Termite hill mushrooms (Species of Termitomyces), a variety of edible fungi found in Namibia, also called Omajowa a Herero word for our Namibian termite or anthill mushroom, they are quite unique to Namibia, are farmed by termites and despite best attempts, humankind has been unable to grow them, as well as termites. The fungi play a significant role in the emergence of social homeostasis in Termite colonies. Indeed, in a remarkable way, it is actually not the termites that cultivate the fungi, but the fungi that are cultivating the termites. Omajowa occur only during the rainy season, appear at the foot of termite hills after the rains and can weigh up to 1kg. The mushroom is also a symbol of rapid growth, and prosperity, and is highly valued in many cultures. They can be found in large quantities between Oshivelo and Tsumeb in Oshikoto region, to the east of Etoshapan. Farm workers collect them and bring them to the roadside for sale, although the price is not a fixed one, it varies between N$5 to 10 per kg. Another mushroom species found in Namibia is Kalahari truffle which grows primarily in the red sands of the Kalahari regions. Both of these species are delicious and are served in formal restaurants and lodges. In rural areas, people collect these mushrooms which replace meat in many meals.

 

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Omajowa termite hill mushrooms Namibia

Omajowa termite hill mushrooms Namibia

 

[Ozondjahe Hunting Safaris]

Omajowa termite hill mushrooms Namibia

Omajowa termite hill mushrooms Namibia

 

[Ozondjahe Hunting Safaris]

Omajowa termite hill mushrooms Namibia

Omajowa termite hill mushrooms Namibia

 

[Ozondjahe Hunting Safaris]

With the rain comes the Omajowa termite hill mushrooms... Here we found 36 on one termite mount!

 

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From another termite hill...

 

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